The best private sites RV campgrounds in Presque Isle

It's easy to see why Presque Isle is a National Natural Landmark. The 3,200-acre peninsula is a mesmerizing wild haven jutting from the shores of Erie, Pennsylvania. With year-round recreation options to spare, it's a must-visit on Lake Erie.

Ready to explore Presque Isle State Park? The 13 sandy swimming beaches and 21 miles of trails are a great start. You can also gawk at the pristine shoreline from Peninsula Drive—keep an eye out for the historic lighthouses. Canoeing, biking, inline skating, and hiking are a few other ways to see the park.

The park itself offers no camping since it's day use only. Luckily, the region boasts tons of private RV parks with full hook-ups and campgrounds with tent camping around Erie and Fairview. Fire rings, picnic tables, and even Wi-Fi are a few amenities to enjoy.

Once you've found your home base, discover the calm waters of Presque Isle Bay. The state park's 500-slip marina is ground zero for water skiing, wakeboarding or just cruising while ospreys fly overhead. Trout, muskie, and walleye fishing is also big here, so don't forget your tackle.

For viewing local wildlife, head to Gull Point Natural Area. Situated on the far end of Presque Isle, it's been named one of the best birding spots in the United States. You definitely want to bring your camera and binoculars.

Keep in mind Presque Isle isn't the only park in the area. Just 12 miles west of Erie, you come to Erie Bluffs State Park. Stop here to explore 5+ miles of trails and take in fantastic views from a 90-foot bluff.

While this Lake Erie paradise can get crowded, Memorial Day through Labor Day is still a great time to visit. The weather is warm, and recreation options such as state park rental bikes are still available.

Pennsylvania winters are cold and snowy, meaning many campgrounds are only open seasonally. On the other hand, a heated cabin gives you access to the region's best winter recreation. Ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and wind skating (think kite surfing meets ice skating) are just a few options.

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Top-rated campgrounds

1. Roller-Coaster Road Ranch

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3 sites · Tents, RVs · Cooperstown, PA

The Roller-Coaster Road Ranch offers many maintained trails, perfect for hiking. The property is mainly forested, but does contain numerous open spaces perfect for a rustic camping experience. The farm has a few large open fields that are plowed and planted seasonally. Various wildlife populates the area; whitetail deer, turkey, black bear, and bald eagles. A stocked trout stream passes through portions of the property and connects to a larger stream with many options for swimming, wading, and crayfish hunting. Many different campsites are available in various uniquely situated sites.

2. Patchwork Place

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12 sites · Tents, RVs · Jefferson, OH

We have just under 20 acres. You can drive right to the camp sites located about 700 foot behind the house. It is a peaceful setting over looking a pond, fishing is welcome. There is a pavilion and a playground. Kids and dogs are welcome. We are close to several local wineries and about 20 minutes from Lake Erie. Pymatuning Lake is 30 minutes away. Geneva on the Lake is about 30 minutes from us. We have a catch and release fishing pond. There are 8 sites, all pretty spaced out to give privacy and a relaxing experience. 2 of which are pretty secluded site 6 and site 8. Campsites 1, 2,4,5 and 7have a view of the pond. Site 3 is near a meadow and sits behind all the other sites. Sites 1,2,3,7 can be RV or tent sites. The pavilion adds a sense of comfort especially during rain days. We have corn hole , bocce ball and a few other relaxing games as well as a few card and board games for playing while enjoying the pavilion.